How to Print Miniature STLs with Resin 3D Printers
Step-by-step guide to dialing in your exposure, support setup, and washing/curing miniatures for wargaming.
Tabletop miniature 3D printing has revolutionized the wargaming hobby. Today, resin SLA, MSLA, and LCD printers are capable of capturing details smaller than a fraction of a millimeter. However, achieving flawless prints consistently requires understanding a few core steps.
1. Dialing in Exposure Times
Each resin has a sweet spot for exposure. Under-exposure leads to weak structures and failed supports, while over-exposure fills in thin panel lines and details. Run exposure calibration tests (like the 3D City or validation matrix) before starting your prints.
2. Post-Processing: Wash and Cure
Once printed, wash your miniatures in 99% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to dissolve un-cured resin. Soak the model in warm water for 30 seconds to make supports extremely easy to peel off without scratching the detail. Finally, cure the model in a UV chamber for 2 to 4 minutes.
3. Safety First
Always print in a well-ventilated space, and wear nitrile gloves and a mask when handling liquid resin. Liquid resin is toxic until fully cured under UV light.
Wargaming Collection
Premium grimdark tactical walker units, modular weapons, gothic ruins, and pre-supported tabletop miniatures.
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